Rwanda and Belgium have severed diplomatic ties as the EU imposes sanctions on Rwandan military and M23 leaders linked to conflict in the DRC. The EU’s actions aim to address violations of international humanitarian law amidst rising tensions and casualties. Belgium’s support for DRC and Rwandan accusations of manipulation have intensified conflicts, exacerbating an already volatile situation.
On March 17, 2025, Rwanda and Belgium officially severed diplomatic ties, coinciding with a decision by European Union ministers to impose sanctions on Rwandan military leaders and members of a rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Relations between Belgium and Rwanda have deteriorated due to the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels’ advances within the resource-rich eastern DRC, which have resulted in significant human casualties and displacement. According to DRC authorities, around 7,000 individuals have lost their lives amidst ongoing violence.
The EU’s sanctions target prominent figures within the Rwanda Defense Force and M23, along with a refinery linked to the illegal trade of DRC’s natural resources. This decision comes just prior to scheduled peace talks between the DRC government and M23 rebels in Angola. An EU diplomat emphasized that these sanctions are not intended as an attack on Rwanda, but rather a necessary response to violations of international humanitarian law.
In retaliation, Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Ministry announced the severance of diplomatic relations with Belgium, ordering Belgian diplomats to leave within 48 hours. The Rwandan Ministry’s statement accused Belgium of perpetuating hostility against Rwanda through manipulative tactics and unfounded claims, asserting that Belgium is clinging to outdated neocolonial views. In response, Belgian Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prévot stated that Belgium would reciprocate by declaring Rwandan diplomats persona non grata and canceling government agreements, characterizing Rwanda’s action as disproportionate and indicative of its unwillingness to engage in constructive dialogue.
Despite denouncing Rwandan actions in DRC as violations of national sovereignty, EU officials have faced criticism for exacerbating tensions. Previously, the EU maintained a critical minerals deal with Rwanda, criticized for potentially facilitating the smuggling of conflict minerals from DRC. An EU diplomat noted that the sanctions are merely an initial measure, with a review of the critical raw materials agreement underway, though the potential for future actions remains uncertain. Additionally, Rwanda had previously suspended its bilateral cooperation with Belgium in February, alleging that Belgium was attempting to obstruct its development funding access due to territorial infractions in DRC.
The recent diplomatic rift between Rwanda and Belgium highlights escalated tensions stemming from the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels’ actions in the DRC. With the EU’s sanctions targeting Rwandan military leadership, alongside both nations exchanging diplomatic expulsions, the crisis underscores the complexities of international relations amid ongoing conflict in the region. As calls for further measures emerge, the situation remains precarious, necessitating close monitoring of developments surrounding the upcoming peace talks and the broader implications for regional stability.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
